Department of Ophthalmology, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Abstract

Nonophthalmologists did not attempt to (36%) or were "unable to" (19%) examine the fundus in 72 children with shaken baby syndrome. When the retina was examined, nonophthalmologists were accurate in recognizing the absence or presence of retinal hemorrhage in 87%. However, false-negative examinations occurred in 13%. Ophthalmology consultation should be an integral part of the evaluation of children with suspected abuse.